Military and non-military service
Finnish men are have an obligation for military service (conscription). Most conscripts complete military service. However, instead of military service, some perform their duties either as unarmed military service or non-military service, based on their personal convictions. Women can apply for voluntary military service, and after the service, these women are considered conscripts.
Finnish men have an obligation for national service. The obligation is met through military service.
Fitness for military service and the start time are decided in call-upsOpens in a new window. which are sent to all men who are 18 in the call-up year. The date of the call-up is notified by a postal call-up alert which is accompanied by more detailed instructions on how to respond to the call-up.
You can either serve undertake unarmed service or non-military serviceOpens in a new window.. You can apply for these on the form with the call-up.
Unarmed service is the same as normal military service, but does not include weapons training.
Non-military service includes a training period in an educational centre and work in a workplace approved by the centre. Non-military service cannot be done working for your employer.
Total refusal means refusal to do both military and non-military service. Total refusal is made through a written notification to the place of service. Under Finnish law, these objectors either have a monitoring sentence imposed on them or are sent to prison.
Yes, Finnish women from the ages of 18 to 29 can voluntarily apply for military serviceOpens in a new window. by sending an application to the armed forces’ regional office.
The armed forces or your civilian service will pay you a daily allowance during the period of your service. In certain circumstances you can apply to Kela for military service assistanceOpens in a new window. which can cover your accommodation costs or the interest on your study loan.
Your partner can also apply for military service assistance if you are married, in a registered civil relationship or if you are cohabiting and have a child together. You can apply for assistance for childcare at the same time.
If you are injured as the result of an accident during your service or become ill because of your service, the armed forces or your workplace in non-military service will look after your treatment during your service.
If you are still suffering from the injury or illness caused by your service after the period of service is over, the State Treasury will be responsible for the treatment costs of your injury or illness as well as other compensation under the law.
The military service obligation does not end with carrying out military service or voluntary military service. After the service period the person with a military service obligation transfers to the reserves. The reserves can be called up for refresher training and, if necessary, to defend Finland militarily. The military service obligation only ends at the end of the year in which the person reaches the age of 60. The MyMilitaryOpens in a new window. service of the Finnish Defence Forces is your online service channel and guide throughout the conscription period. There, you can also manage your affairs during your time in the reserve.
In crisis situations, those who have completed non-military service have an obligation to undertake extra service which provides training in civilian jobs needed in time of crisis. In the event of war, those who have completed non-military civil service would be directed to do those jobs. The service obligation ends at the end of the year in which the person who has completed non-military service reaches the age of 60.